A decline in exports dampened growth, according to official data, which comes amid concerns of a global slowdown.

Gross domestic product (GDP) fell by 0.1% compared with the previous quarter.

That takes the annual growth rate down to 0.4%. Germany, Europe’s largest economy, narrowly avoided a recession last year.

While the overall figures were negative, household and government expenditure increased, as did investment outside the construction sector.

Construction itself fell after an unusually good first three months, boosted by a mild winter.

But Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government still believes the economy will grow slightly this year and does not think further stimulus is necessary.

Taiwan National Day Celebration

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here